The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed Congress leader Dharam Singh Chhoker to appear before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case filed against him. The court's decision came during a hearing on a plea seeking rejection of the money laundering case against Chhoker.

During the hearing, the court specified that Chhoker must appear before the probe agency in Delhi on April 12 at 11 am, and subsequently on any dates as required. The bench, led by Justice Sanjiv Khanna, also provided limited protection from arrest to Chhoker, stating that the ED must first file an application before the Supreme Court if they intend to arrest him. This measure was taken to ensure a fair process and to prevent any undue harassment.

The court's decision came after deliberations with the ED's lawyer, where it was discussed whether the agency planned to arrest Chhoker. The Additional Solicitor General SV Raju responded that such actions would depend on the evidence and material available with the agency.

Chhoker's legal representation, led by senior advocate Sidharth Luthra, highlighted the upcoming elections as a factor to be considered. The court acknowledged this concern and emphasized the need for transparency and legal procedure in any potential arrest actions.

The case also brought attention to the Enforcement Case Information Reports (ECIRs) related to Chhoker, with the court remarking on the need for clarity from the ED regarding the basis of their actions. Chhoker's legal team pointed out that the predicate offence in the case had been quashed by the high court, leading to questions about the legitimacy of the subsequent ECIR and proceedings.

Despite summons, non-bailable warrants, and initiation of proclamation proceedings against Chhoker by the ED, the court noted that no order on proclamation has been passed yet. The matter is scheduled for further consideration before the trial court on April 15.